A Down-to-Earth Look at the Private Snorkeling Tour in San José del Cabo
If you’re considering a snorkeling trip around Baja California Sur, this private outing from open water expeditions offers a chance to see the Sea of Cortez’s colorful marine life in a relaxed, personalized setting. While I haven’t done it myself, based on honest reviews and detailed descriptions, it seems like a versatile experience that combines calm waters, good food, and knowledgeable guides—all in a private setting that keeps things intimate and flexible.
What we really like about this tour is the personalized approach—only your group participates, which means no crowded boat experiences, just custom attention. Plus, the inclusion of snacks, drinks, and a hearty lunch really adds to the value, making this more than just a snorkeling trip. A potential drawback? It’s a fairly short experience (about three hours), so if you’re seeking a full-day adventure, you might need additional plans. Still, for those looking for a relaxed, scenic escape, this tour fits the bill.
This experience works best for travelers who want a peaceful, guided snorkeling trip with good food and drinks, especially if you’d prefer a private setting without strangers. It’s also great if you’re after a personalized, flexible experience that focuses on marine life and scenic views, rather than high-energy activities.
Key Points
- Private and personalized—only your group on the boat means more comfort and flexibility.
- Includes meals and drinks, making it a convenient full experience with no need to worry about packing snacks.
- Great for relaxed travelers who want a scenic, calm ocean adventure with a focus on marine life.
- Short duration (around 3 hours), ideal for those with limited time or looking for a laid-back outing.
- Knowledgeable guides ensure safety and enrich the experience by pointing out marine animals and answering questions.
- Weather-dependent, so your trip might be canceled or rescheduled if conditions aren’t right.
Planning more time in Baja California Sur? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Experience: What to Expect
Meeting Up and Initial Contact
Your adventure begins at the Open Water Expeditions office, conveniently located next to the Hotel La Marina Inn. The staff here are friendly and ready to assist you with registration, providing information and making sure everything runs smoothly before you set sail. This part is straightforward, and their welcoming attitude helps set a relaxed tone for the day.
Boarding and Departure
Once checked in, you’ll hop onto a nearby dock, where your boat awaits. The boat is private to your group, which makes for a comfortable, unrushed start. The captain and crew are attentive, and reviews suggest they’re friendly and easy to talk to, creating a welcoming atmosphere from the start.
Watching for Marine Life
The main highlight is snorkeling in the calm, clear waters of the Sea of Cortez, renowned for its abundance of tropical fish and vibrant reefs. While not explicitly a whale-watching tour, the crew is on the lookout for signs of whales, like spouts or jumps. If the conditions are right, you might even spot humpback whales, gray whales, dolphins, and other marine creatures. Many reviewers emphasize how attentive and helpful the guides are—pointing out fish and wildlife, and ensuring everyone feels safe.
Snorkeling and Marine Exploration
Once in the water, you’ll don the provided snorkeling gear to explore the underwater scenery. The reefs and marine life are what make this area special, and several reviews mention how the guides go out of their way to identify different fish and wildlife. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced snorkeler, the calm waters and clear visibility make this an accessible and enjoyable experience.
Food, Drink, and Relaxation
After your swim, you’ll enjoy a selection of snacks, sodas, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages. The reviews consistently praise the quality of the included food and drinks—many saying it was “great” and appreciated after a few dips in the water. The lunch options are hearty, and the drinks keep the vibe relaxed, especially on warm days.
Returning to Shore
The trip wraps up after about three hours, and you’ll head back to the dock. Many travelers mention how the crew makes the entire experience feel smooth and unhurried, leaving plenty of time to unwind and soak in the views.
The Value of this Tour
At $200 per person, this tour might seem a tad pricey if you’re looking for a full-day adventure. However, when you factor in the private setting, included meals, drinks, and equipment, the cost becomes more justified. Plus, the knowledgeable guides and the chance to snorkel in an area known for its vibrant marine life add a lot of worth.
The reviews are glowing—people mention how the guides made them feel safe and well cared for, how delicious the food was, and how memorable their interactions with the wildlife were. One reviewer even noted that their guide found the right tour for their family, indicating flexibility and attentiveness.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is ideal for those who prefer relaxed, personalized outings rather than large-group tours. If you’re looking for a calm, scenic day on the water with easy snorkeling, friendly guides, and good food, this trip ticks those boxes. It’s suitable for travelers who value comfort, good company, and marine wildlife viewing without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the gentle nature of the tour and the focus on snorkeling and relaxing suggest it could suit families with older children comfortable in the water. If you’re after a lively, high-energy adventure, this might not be the best fit.
FAQs About the Private Snorkeling Tour
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the calm waters and provided snorkeling gear make it accessible for beginners. The guides are attentive and ready to assist with safety and wildlife spotting.
How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 3 hours from start to finish, including the time at the meeting point, snorkeling, and returning to shore.
What’s included in the price?
You get snorkeling equipment, snacks, soda, bottled water, alcoholic beverages, and a hearty lunch onboard. No hidden costs, and all the essentials are covered.
Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour has a flexible cancellation policy—full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. If the weather isn’t suitable, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled.
Is it a private tour?
Absolutely. Only your group participates, ensuring a more intimate and customized experience.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at La Playita and ends back at the same meeting point, next to the Hotel La Marina Inn.
Is there any gratuity expected?
Gratuities are not included. While not mandatory, tipping guides who provide excellent service is appreciated.
How do I book?
You can book about 20 days in advance, and the process is straightforward through the provider’s platform.
What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, sunscreen, a towel, and maybe a hat or sunglasses for sun protection. The tour provides the snorkeling gear, so no need to bring your own unless you prefer.
Private Snorkeling In San Jose Del Cabo Lunch, Drinks, Snack
“Very friendly, easy to talk to. They provided food, drinks, equipment and music. Loved it will do again! Jonathan and Eduardo answered all our ques…”
Final Thoughts
If you’re after a peaceful, well-organized snorkeling trip that balances marine exploration with good food and drinks, this private tour offers a lot of value. The guides seem genuinely committed to making your experience memorable, and the private setting means you won’t be crowded or hurried. This would suit travelers who enjoy gentle adventures, scenic views, and good company in a calm, inviting environment.
The tour’s short duration makes it ideal for those with limited time or travelers who prefer a slow, relaxed pace. The focus on marine life, combined with the comfort of private transportation and included meals, makes it a compelling choice for a laid-back day on the water in Baja California Sur.
If you’re comfortable with the weather-dependent nature of marine excursions and value personalized service, this snorkeling trip is worth considering for your Baja trip—whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a small group.
Hope this helps you decide if this private snorkeling experience fits your style. Happy travels—and maybe I’ll see you underwater in Baja!
